“Hey! Watch where, you’re going, mister!” I glared up at the tall, thin man who had pretty clearly purposefully run into me. I didn’t have time to deal with loons in the park if I was going to make it to the shelter before they shut their doors for the night.

He gave me what I think he thought was a friendly smile. “My apologies, let me help you up.” He pulled me to my feet and I brushed myself off. “Let me make it up to you. How does a hot meal and a warm bed sound?” I eyed him warily. Cara had warned me about strangers offering to take me anywhere. People were going missing. Not that anyone would want a street kid like me. Can’t be too careful sometimes, though.